⏱️ Prep Time: 15 minutes • 🍳 Cook Time: 10 minutes

This isn’t your average spring salad. Roasted cherries take center stage, bringing a rich, jammy sweetness that pairs perfectly with tangy goat cheese, toasted walnuts, and a citrusy vinaigrette. It’s like a fancy café salad — but you made it, and it’s even better.

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*This fresh and vibrant salad features juicy roasted cherries, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy walnuts for a perfect spring bite.*

I was inspired to make this after seeing roasted grapes on a charcuterie board. I figured — if grapes can do it, cherries absolutely can. Roasting deepens their flavor and brings out a mellow sweetness that’s just magical against peppery greens like arugula or spring mix. Add in the creamy goat cheese and crunchy walnuts, and it’s kind of the ultimate spring salad.

I love serving this as a light lunch with a slice of sourdough or as a side for a roast chicken dinner. It also makes a lovely starter for a brunch or shower — it looks so elegant and tastes like sunshine in a bowl. The vinaigrette is simple and citrus-forward, made with lemon juice, honey, and a touch of Dijon. It pulls everything together without overpowering the cherries.

If you’ve never roasted cherries before, prepare to fall in love. This recipe turns a few simple ingredients into something that feels super special — and it's ready in under 30 minutes!

🍽️ Servings: 4 • 🔥 Calories/Serving: 240

Ingredients

2 cups pitted cherries (fresh or frozen)
1 tbsp olive oil (for roasting)
5 oz spring greens or arugula
⅓ cup goat cheese, crumbled
¼ cup toasted walnuts
1 tbsp chopped fresh mint (optional)

For the Lemon Honey Vinaigrette:

3 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp honey
½ tsp Dijon mustard
Pinch of salt and pepper

Steps

Step 1

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2

Toss the pitted cherries with 1 tbsp olive oil and spread on the baking sheet.

Step 3

Roast for 10–12 minutes, until the cherries are softened and slightly caramelized. Let cool slightly.

Step 4

While the cherries roast, whisk together all vinaigrette ingredients in a small bowl or jar.

Step 5

Assemble salad greens in a large serving bowl or platter.

Step 6

Top with roasted cherries, crumbled goat cheese, toasted walnuts, and chopped mint (if using).

Step 7

Drizzle with vinaigrette just before serving and toss gently to coat.

Make it your own!

🧀 Swap the cheese
Try feta, blue cheese, or shaved parmesan if goat cheese isn’t your thing.
🥬 Change the greens
Baby spinach, kale, or butter lettuce all work beautifully here.
🍗 Add protein
Top with grilled chicken or seared salmon to make it a full meal.
🍑 Mix the fruit
Add sliced strawberries or peaches with the cherries for a fruit-forward twist.